Efficacy and Safety of Quantum Molecular Resonance Electrotherapy in Dry Eye Disease: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of quantum molecular resonance (QMR) electrotherapy in patients with dry eye disease (DED). Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis, reporting the effects of QMR electrotherapy in three databases, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science, was performed according to the PRISMA statement with a search period ending on December 24, 2024. Results: Seven studies, including four open-label, non-comparative trials and three randomized controlled studies (RCTs), were included. Although all studies reported significant improvements in most outcome measures after QMR electrotherapy, the meta-analysis indicated that overall efficacy did not significantly favor either group when comparing QMR electrotherapy to controls (SMD 0.40; 95% CI − 0.06 to 0.86; P = 0.09; I² = 85%). However, only the change in DED symptoms was significantly favorable for QMR electrotherapy compared to controls (SMD 0.69; 95% CI 0.30–1.08; P = 0.0005; I² = 28%). In sensitivity analyses, overall efficacy remained non-significant when comparing QMR electrotherapy to placebo QMR electrotherapy (SMD 0.14; 95% CI − 0.24 to 0.52; P = 0.46; I² = 65%). Additionally, changes in DED symptoms, TBUT, ST, and CFS also showed no statistically significant differences between both groups. Regarding safety, most studies reported no AEs, with a satisfactory tolerability profile for QMR electrotherapy. However, a meta-analysis could not be performed. Conclusions: With the current scientific literature available to date, QMR electrotherapy seems to show some evidence of alleviating DED symptoms. However, evidence supporting its efficacy in improving DED signs and safety remains limited. Therefore, further RCTs with robust designs are needed to confirm these findings.